Carter returns to lead Brumbies

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Brumbies have made three changes to the starting XV that defeated the Reds at GIO Stadium last week as they prepare for the challenge of the Rebels in Melbourne on Saturday.

Sam Carter returns to skipper the side against the Rebels, renewing his second-row partnership with Wallabies international teammate Rory Arnold, whilst there are starts for centre Andrew Smith and No.8 Jarrad Butler in place of the injured Kyle Godwin and Jordan Smiler.

Head Coach Stephen Larkham reverts to a six-two split on the bench which sees Jordan Jackson-Hope named as cover for the backs alongside a possible first Brumbies cap for former Australian Sevens star and ACT local Tom Cusack.

Blake Enever is included amongst the forward replacements in what is a strong bench as the Brumbies aim to extend their winning streak against Australian Conference opposition to eleven.

The hand injury suffered by Godwin in the 43-10 hammering of the Reds means a first start of the season for Smith in the inside-centre role, linking up with Tevita Kuridrani. Tom Banks retains his position on the left wing with Henry Speight and last week's man of the match Aidan Toua completing the back three.

The pairing of Joe Powell and Wharenui Hawera continues for a seventh match in a row with the Kiwi-born pivot having racked up 52 points in his first half a dozen matches for the side.

The pack, which was in dominant form against the Reds, has a more settled look with the front row trio of Scott Sio, Robbie Abel and Allan Alaalatoa combining for the second week in succession.

With Smiler out injured, Butler's first start of the campaign is alongside powerhouse Scott Fardy and the ultra-impressive Chris Alcock, the pair proving to be almost unstoppable at the breakdown in the Reds victory, snaffling regular possession and securing plenty of ball.